LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 

Shelf..'.-S.£.7 
. l^lS^ 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



>jf^OG0)S4^^ 



BY ,/ 

MARTHA A. SMITH. 



a^ 




lirooliljiu : 

FUINTKI) FOR THE AUTHOK. 






J^ N 



Coioriglit. 1883. by M. A. iJMiTn.;=^ 



M. I\:acl). 'I'kai K Print. 



C O N T E N T S 



PAGE 

Must our Palling he Forever? .... I 

To a Young Friend on tlie De.ilh of lier Mother . 3 

F.arewell Our I.itllc ]5an<l, ..... 5 

A S.iil Kefrain, ....... 8 

Renienihrance, . ...... 10 

Two Sisters, ....... 12 

Recollections of Pleasant Hours at Saratoga 

Springs, . . . . . . . 14 

A Sail on the lludson, . . . , . .16 

Memoirs of a Country Maiden, .... 17 

Sonic Day, ........ 25 

My Old Fur Cape and Rocking Cliair, . . 28 
Farewell, Watch Hill ! — (To Miss Blancli 

Whitney), . . . , . . 31 

Ode to IJirdie, ....... 32 

The Forsaken Wife, . . . . . . 35 

In Memory of our late departed President, 

James A. Garfield, .... 37 

On the Marriage of a Friend, . ... 38 

The Sweet Uy-and-Uy, . .... 40 



vi CONTENTS. 

I'AGE 

111 Memoriam, ....... 42 

Comic l)ri':k, come back fioni o'er the .Sea, . . 44 

Oi'.r Winsome Litile Winnie, . . . -46 

Tlie liiidal Day of Liliie 47 

Our Japanese Pug, . . . -49 

On the IMarria2;e of Winnie, . • ■ • 53 

Laui^hinj; liyes, . . . . . . -55 

In Memoriam — On liie Ueatli of Berlha Shult?, . 56 

Retrospection, ....... 57 

To Sadie 58 

Keniembrance, . . . . . . -59 

Stitchinj;, 61 

On tlie Presentation of a Rockinsj Ciiair 

to , 62 

Our Little Baiul 65 

We have Met and Coldly Parted, ... 66 

'Tis Many Long Years, I Rememljer, . . .67 

Friendship's Offering, ..... 68 

Returning Home, . . . . .69 

To a l!ereaved One, ...... 7c 

Home Love. ....... 72 

Request of a ^^)ung Lady to her Lover, . 73 

Little Mayijcl, 74 

To Mother, . . 75 

1 iap|iy Mother, ....... 76 

Fare Thee Well, ...... 77 



CONTENTS. 



A Wish 

On the Death of Lulu, 
Sadness, ..... 
Do I Love Tliee? . . . , 
No, Never More, 
Maniai^e of a I'lietid, . . . 

Tlie Deatli of lone, 
Dead Love, .... 
In Memoiy of Mrs. W. E. Ilorwill, 
*In Menioriam — Ijeautiful Ida. . 
Kemenibrance, .... 
Beautiful Sunlif;lit, 
Tolielle, .... 

Adieu, My Friend, .... 
To My Niece, 
Tlie Departed One, 
Li ^^eIllorian1 — Little Albert, 
Thee, My Friend, . . . . 

Little Dai.sy, .... 



8r 
84 
S5 
S7 
88 
89 
90 
92 

93 

96 

99 

100 

lOI 

102 
104 
105 
107 






TO MY FRIENDS. 



Thou'It find Avithin these pages, friend, 
Kindly remembrances to all I send; 
If a time should come when no more 
I breathe my love thus o'er and o'er, 
Then loving thoughts may for me. stray, 
O'rflow thy bosom's depth some day; 
Perchance when o'er these leaves you turn, 
Thou'It feel this heart did oft-times yearn 
For pure affection, fond and true, 
As I dedicate this book to you. 




mimi 



&lR/foK/'tvR/KK1 



I^OEMS. 



MUST OUR PARTING BE FOREVER? 

Must our parting be forever, 

Never a light to brighten day ? 
Will no sunbeam shed ever 

O'er our life one glimmering ray ? 
When the sad farewell is spoken, 

We have gone our separate way, 
Each the other has not forgotten. 

Till we pass from earth away. 

Must our parting be forever, 

Till the dawn of coming light, 
Lighting up a home where ever 

Is a beautiful Heaven bright ? 
When our last farewell is spoken, 

Kind wishes linger while we trace 
Many a sweet, remembered token. 

That memory never can efface. 



POEMS. 

Must our parting be forever, 

'rill we pass from earth away ? 
After all earthly ties we sever, 

Shall we meet again some day ? 
When, all griefs and sorrows ended, 

Meet again in rapture sweet. 
Will our hearts be reunited 

In a love that is complete ? 

Must our parting be forever, 

When we speak the sad adieu ? 
We may meet on earth no never. 

Though the heart be ever true. 
When this fleeting life is over, 

fust beyond is a beautiful light, 
Beaming bright in Heaven yonder, 

Where our spirit love unite. 

Must our parting be forever ? 

When we speak the sad good-bye. 
Shall we meet again as ever — 

Sunbeams in a brighter sky ? 
When this darkened life is over. 

Will a beacon light above 
Guide us in the Great Hereafter 

To our spirits' final love ? 



POEMS. 



TO A YOUNG FRIEND ON THE DEATH OF 
HER MOTHER. 

Thou art not alone, orphaned one, 

For God is with thee ever, 
And will guide thy footsteps home ; 

He is thy true protector. 

Live so that when life is o'er, 

Thy earthly mission ended, 
Thy spirit love live evermore 

With whom thy soul is blended. 

Though never more a mother's kiss 
May thrill thy heart with pleasure. 

Her sufferings o'er, in Heavenly bliss 
She's resting with her Saviour. 

Some day thou'lt in rapture meet 
With loved ones so endearing — 

Mingle there at Jesus' feet, 

In that bright world appearing. 

While looking on thy gentle face, 
Tender thoughts are stealing 

O'er my heart, while I trace 
Beautiful love there beaming. 



POEMS. 

Thou had all a mother's love, 
And father's tender blessing, 

Ere they were called to dwell above. 
Were fondly thee caressing. 

On thee thy mother did rely. 
For thou wer't self-sustaining ; 

Therefore do not heave the sigh, 
While earthly here remaining. 

He knew best when calling away 
Those suffering ones up yonder ; 

A shining ray lit their way 

To their Heavenly home, remember. 

Then grieve no more thy heart sore ; 

Sweet orphan, stop thy weeping ; 
All thy tears can ne'er restore ; 

Thy mother's in His keeping. 

Fare thee well ; forget me not ; 

While I will thee remember, 
While drifting onward to that spot 

Where angel spirits number. 



POEMS. 



FAREWELL, OUR LITTLE BAND. 

Off for a tour through Europe ; 

Steamer Britannic bears away ; 
"Our Little Band " are leaving 

For a far-off land to-day. 

\\'hile thou think of us quite often, 

Thou'lt not forgotten be, 
Either upon the billowy ocean, 

Or as fairer lands thou'lt see. 

Must days, nay months, roll onward, 
Ere again we welcome home 

" This little band " now leaving. 
In a distant clime to roam ? 

Alas ! the anguish of this parting ! 

Each to go their separate way ; 
Thou to cross the deep blue ocean, 

We left at home to pray. 

That our Father guardeth ever 
Our band with tenderest care. 

And shield from every danger — 
This will be our earnest prayer. 



POEMS. 

That health and every pleasure 
May attend where'er they go, 

While He, our Heavenly Father, 
Will protecting care bestow. 

Then when thy journey's over, 
When of pleasure thou dost tire. 

May He guide thy footsteps home 
Again — this is our desire. 

Our tears will flow unbidden, 
Which we cannot well repress, 

As we breathe farewell at parting, 
With the fondest of caress. 

Thou 'It not forget when distant 
Far, and other lands thou'lt see, 

Many warm hearts in America 
Are waiting home for thee. 

Farewell ! it must be spoken, 
Ere the steamer sets its sail ; 

The word is softly whispered, 
For the stoutest heart does quail. 

Adieu ! we'll speak it softly ; 

I cannot breathe it loud ; 
The heart is sadly weeping, 

The drooping head is bowed. 



POEMS. 

God bless thee ! all together, 
Either on land or stormy sea. 

Hearts throb with love's emotion, 
As we say farewell to thee. 



FAREWELL. 



The noble steamer is sailing, 
She is gracefully gliding away, 

Bearing those we love so dearly. 
Beyond our home fo-day. 

The farewell parting is over ; 

We cannot grasp their hand, 
Or press them to our bosom — 

Those — "Our little band." 

In Memory's cabinet ever 
Will live this scene to-day — 

This beautiful steamer sailing 
With our loved ones far away. 

Who can portray the anguish. 
As we tear ourselves apart ? 

This grief we cannot banish. 
That rends the aching heart. 



POEMS. 

The roaring, seething ocean 
Oft in fancy we shall see, 

While we breathe the fervent prayer 
For dear ones o'er the sea. 

Our Father shield them ever, 
Wherever their journey be, 

Either upon the briny ocean. 
Or when distant lands they see. 

With tears the eye o'erflowing, 
As we wave the fond adieu — 

Oh ! the agony of this parting. 
As we bid farewell to you ! 



A SAD REFRAIN. 

The Christmas bells are chiming, 
The morn breaks bright and fair, 

My heart is grieved and sighing 
O'er its lone and sad despair. 

Ere another Christmas morning 
Breaks o'er this earth so bright, 

Will the one that now is writing 
Be free from earthly blight ? 



POEATS. 

The heart be done with throbbing, 

Its aching pain all o'er. 
And longing wish for loving 

Hearts stilled for evermore ? 

This intense power of feeling 
In waves of sorrow roll ; 

Oft-times its deep commotion 
She cannot well control. 

Oft in hours of lonely leisure, 
Thus she her thoughts portray ; 

Lines that some may cherish, 
When she has passed away. 

Life's joys for her are over ; 

Hope, the anchor of the soul. 
Has fled the bosom ever — 

Dead, as embers of a coal. 

She's aged now, and yearning 
For that better life to come, 

In Heaven above awaiting. 

When her earthly mission's done. 

Firm upon the Rock of Ages 
She has built her hope above ; 

Her heart sings forth its praises 
Unto' its God of love. 



POEMS. 



REMEMBRANCE. 

Thou art gone to join the angels ; 

Suffering humanity must deplore ; 
Thy usefulness on earth is over ; 

Shall we see thy face no more ? 

Thou art gone unto thy Saviour ; 

Thy memory lives till life is o'er, 
Fondly in our hearts forever ; 

Shall we see thee nevermore ? 

Thou art gone, safely rejoicing, 
Within thy Heavenly Father's love. 

Amid the chosen choir awaiting ; 
Shall we meet again above ? 

We may meet where there's no parting. 
When all sickness and suffering o'er, 

Where, no more the tear-drop starting. 
There we'll join thee evermore. 



POEMS. 



OUR MOTHER. 



Mother ! Oh, our Mother ! 

As we clasp thee to our heart, 
Our being thrills with pleasure, 

Until from life we part. 

Mother ! gentle Mother, 

Who watched our tender youth 
From our earliest infancy — 

Taught us the word of truth. 

Mother ! loving Mother, 
Who oft in childhood days 

Lingered around us fondly, 
And joined us in our plays. 

Mother ! dearest Mother, 

Thou'lt watch beside our bed. 

With tender care in sickness. 
Till sleeping with the dead. 

Mother ! darling Mother, 

Should our Saviour call away 

Thy cherished one, thy angel. 
You'll weep forever, and pray. 



POEMS. 

Mother ! weeping Mother, 
As thy loved one goes to rest, 

Who can paint the anguish 
Within that mother's breast ? 

Mother ! oh, our Mother ! 

With heart oppressed in grief, 
God, our loving Saviour, 

Brings the only true relief. 



TWO SISTERS. 



While sitting at my window 

I saw two sisters pass ; 
Both were in beauty beaming. 

But one was blind, alas ! 

The young was leading the elder 
So tenderly by her side ; 

Love binds their hearts together. 
While through life they glide. 

Oh God, we ask thee prayerfully 
Make Thou this mystery plain; 

Guide them through life gently. 
While they on earth remain. 



POEMS. 13 

Remember our loving Saviour 

Oft pierces the tender heart, 
To make it more prayerful ever, 

Till we from earth depart. 

Thou art teaching each the other, 

Thy intercourse is so sweet, 
Leading to the Oreat Hereafter ; 

There thy reward thou 'It meet. 

Sisters, such love doth purify ; 

Thou'lt cherish each other forever ; 
While God will help thee fortify, 

Thou'lt travel through life together. 

Cling together in beautiful love, 
Though our P'ather mayest afflict ; 

Thy crown will be brighter above 
For this cross He doeth direct. 

A crown of glory is shining, 

Beaming bright beyond the sky. 

For thou so gently teaching 
Thy sister on (lod to rely. 

Pen cannot portray the anguish 

That in my bosom dwell ; 
What I can ne'er banish. 

The speaking heart would tell. 



14 POEMS. 

It warmeth in love unspeakable, 
As I saw thee passing by. 

Wilt Thou bear them along lovingly, 
Thus from my heart I sigh. 

In the home of thy Redeemer 
Thine eyes will behold and see 

The crown beyond that's waiting — 
A shining light for thee. 

May I love thee, gentle maiden ? 

May we meet beyond the sky, 
In yonder home in Heaven ? 

On this hope I shall rely. 



RECOLECTIONS OF PLEASANT HOURS AT 
SARATOGA SPRINGS- 

Again I'm sad and lonely, 

'Mid the thoughtless and gay. 

For those I love so dearly 
Left Saratoga to-day, 

For their country home so quiet. 
Leaving the gay resort to those 

Whom are its pleasures seeking. 
Ere the season's at its close. 



POEMS. 15 

One short week of pleasure passed, 
Quite to their heart's content ; 

In their leisure hours they'll treasure 
Those happy hours well spent. 

They hired a little pony, 

Out riding then did go, 
In dog-cart, oh ! so lovely, 

To see Saratoga's big show. 

First to the lake so charming. 

The fashionable long drive ; 
Then to the Geyser and Vichy 

Springs — such pleasure they derive. 

Then at the horse racing, 

You ought to have seen the fun — 
How this ]o\\^ pretty lad) — little lady — 

Laughed to see the horses run. 

At the springs we meet quite often 

To drink and have a chat. 
Ah! I shall ever remember, 

Where we so oft have sat. 

Then the concerts and dancing 

They enjoyed quite as well ; 
In fact, went off rejoicing 

They had spent their time so well. 



1 6 POEMS. 

M}' memory oft will wander, 
While thoii'lt not forgotten be, 

And I shall ofttimes wonder 
If thou'lt remember me. 



A SAIL ON THE HUDSON. 

A beautiful sail on the Hudson, 
In a steamer staunch and true. 

Gliding o'er the waters speedily, 
My darlings, I'm thinking of you. 

The view is grand, majestic, 
The towering rocks and trees, 

With here and there interspersing 
Cottages peeping through the trees. 

The silvery foam of the billows, 
As we glide gracefully through. 

The deep, dark waters of the river. 
My* darlings, I'm thinking of you. 



POEMS. 17 



MEMOIRS OF A COUNTRY MAIDEN. 

Once there dwelt a youthful maiden 
Within a low-thatched rustic cot, 

Where the woodbine towereth lofty — 
Home — it was one sunny spot 

Mid the fields she roamed at leisure, 
Many an hour there whiled away, 

Listening to the wild birds' carol 
Or the rippling brook its play. 

Singing birds around her gathered. 
Warbling in their winsome glee ; 

The fields and woods oft resounded 
Echoing beyond the towering tree. 

Beneath her leafy bower sitting 

She dreamed not of a brighter day, 

Love within her bosom dwelling 
Life was one bright sunny way. 

Oft this merry hearted damsel 

Gathered wild flowers o'er her way. 

Weaving wreaths of floral beauty 

Sheltered 'neath the sun's bright ray. 



1 8 POEMS. 

Home was like a little haven 
Holding o'er her perfect sway, 

Neath the shades of twilight evening 
Happy hours soon passed away. 

Oft those moonlight mellow gloamings 

• Filled her soul with pure delight, 

Mingling with those dearly loved ones 

Alas! now fled forever from sight. 

Memory recalls those early pleasures • 
Of the blissful bygone past. 

Oftentimes they were eventful 
All too bright' this joy to last. 

Those balmy days live forever, 
Cling through life, ne'er depart, 

Leave o'er the heart its impress ever, 
Causing oft the tear to start. 

Afar beyond her fancy wanders 
While again she seems to tread, 

O'er and o'er through hill and valley 
Where oft her nimble footsteps sped. 

Like a roe far o'er the heather 
Bounding o'er it light and free, 

Full of life's bewildering pleasures 
Were those thrilling hours to me. 



POEMS. 19 

Memory of that eaii)- sunshine 
Brightens o'er the darkest day, 

Filling the heart like angels' whispers 
Lifting her soul to realms away. 

Oftentimes her thoughts do wander 
'Mid green fields and towering pines, 

Looming up within the distance 
There her youthful love inclines. 

Lite was an ever changing pleasure 
Where the tall oak twine-.h round, 

All those beauteous works of nature 
Mellow the heart to rebound. 

The loved old home clingeth ever 

While picturing those she held so dear, 

Some are in the church-yard sleeping 
Others scattered far and near. 

Oft she'd fancy the cows a grazing 

Or the sheep returning home 
For the night's protecting shelter. 

Then her lonely heart would roam. 

Unto her early girlhood clinging, 

Amid its joys of sweet content. 
Linger within the family circle 

Memories of a life well spent. 



D POEMS. 

Where the chicks ran to meet her 
While she scatter food around, 

Quack — quack — the ducks are plucking 
What has fallen upon the ground. 

There the geese and tiny goslings 

Have arisen from their bed, 
With their quaint old fashioned 

Gobble — gobble — so impatient to be fed. 

Now the pigs set up their grunting, 
Unto their trough they quickly run, 

Squealing for their early breakfast 
Ere the rising of the sun. 

Thoughts of home and its surroundings 
Oft thrills her being to its core. 

The throbbing heart in love is bounding. 
For those loved ones evermore 

She wanders back unto the meadow 
Or the far off bubbling brook, 

Or within sbme nook there lingers 
Reading from her favorite book. 

Or beneath the pear tree dreaming 
Just beyond our cottage door. 

Of a loved one in the distance 
Within that vast for evermore. 



POEMS. 

Those thrilling visions ever enchanting, 
Treasured links of love divine, 

Thrills her being into rapture 
'Till this frail life she resign. 

Just within the sight of dear ones 
She would wander o'er the fields, 

Filling her basket with luscious berries 
That the ground abundantly yields. 

Or u])on the placid waters 

Of the far famed great south bay, 

Amid the loved and true hearted 
Her happiest hours passed away. 

Shall we peep within the cottage 
Where this fair young maiden's life 

Was sweetly spent 'mid love abounding, 
Free from every worldly strife. 

One beloved there was sitting 

In her cosy rocking chair. 
Knitting many a pair of stockings 

That our fairy feet should wear. 

Oft our fancy wanders homeward, 
We see her nimble fingers fly, 

To complete some pretty garment 
Our loved forms to beautifv. 



> POEMS. 

'Mid affection hearts were bounding, 
Their cherished offspring cling around, 

As the twilight shades are deepening, 
Listening to the mellow sound. 

Of whispered love, fond endearing. 
Thrilling, we shall hear no more. 

Though their spirit hovereth o'er us 
'Till we cross yon heavenly shore. 

Oft she has enraptured listened, 
While enchanting tales were told 

Of other days far in the distance. 

Bewitching stories they would unfold. 

Many a lesson she'll ever remember 
Were listened to with fond delight, 

'Twill linger and abide forever 
Lighting her soul to thine aright. 

Oft those delightful wintery evenings, 
In dreams are vivid to her view. 

She awakes to find it only a phantom 
Through this life that she pursue. 

How can she describe on paper — 
Fondly those hearts whisper low, 

That held her being in such rapture 
In that loved time long, long ago. 



POEMS. 23 

Ofttimes is this lone one longing 
For those loved one's gentle voice, 

And she sighs the dear name o'er 
That often made her heart rejoice. 

Their fond affection like mellow music 
Breathed in loving accents low, 

'I'heir purest love, such true devotion 
She ne'er again on eartli may know. 

Dearly beloved ones, endeared forever, 
Could she breath sweet lines to thee, 

In some pretty little sonnet 

Reaching thy spirit love for me. 

Those dear ones are reposing together, 
Asleep forever, resting side by side, 

O, how oft her heart yearneth 
For those loved ones at eventide. 

Oft her thoughts are soaring upward 
To those realms beyond the sky. 

Unto that mysterious great hereafter 
For which she'll earthly fortify. 

Sadness oft steals o'er the lonely 
Longings for that coming light, 

When life's faithful fever o'er. 
May she see her way aright. 



24 POEMS. 

Every joy must have its ending 
Ere her mission here is done, 

Grief oft-times the bosom rending 
Ere the setting of its sun. 

Peace, sad heart, cease thy moaning; 

Be life one bright or stormy way, 
A ray of sunshine yet may brighten, 

Scattering all dark clouds away. 

Though old age may dim the vision 
And silvered hair fall o'er her brow. 

The fairest face may lose its beauty 
Her heart beats just as loving now. 

As when years ago a maiden 

Amid love's morn of happy hours, 

The throbbing heart beats warm as ever 
Within its own reflective powers. 

Memory of life's summer brightness 
Leaves o'er her heart one sunny place. 

Thrills her being with emotion 
"^hat nought entirely can efface. 

Her rural home long since vanished 
Wherein its early love entwine. 

She could ne'er effectually banish 
Youthful days or its sunshine. 



POEMS. 25 

We may meet when all is over, 
When we've said the last farewell, 

Somewhere in that far off future 
Reunite where loved ones dwell. 

Somewhere beyond this creation, 
After our earthly existence close, 

We shall meet our beloved departed 
Resting in their sweet repose. 

Fare thee well, her muse is over. 
Sadness thrills the aching heart. 

She breathes it o'er this spotless paper. 
Her inner life — its better part. 



SOME DAY. 



I'll smooth the tangles from thy hair 
With gentle touch and tender care. 
And count the years ere time shall mark 
Bright silver threads among the dark. 
I see you smile to hear me say 
You'll think of this again — some day. 



2 6 POEMS. 

Then, while I comb these tresses fair, 
I'll let my fingers linger there. 
Wrapt in mute but fond caress 
And pray that grief may ne'er oppress, 
When other gentle hands there stray 
Amid those pretty locks — some day. 

Thou mayest not scorn the power of time. 
For thy young life will flow like mine; 
Thoul't aged be as time rolls round, 
While I shall lie in sleep profound. 
Then laugh as gaily as you may, 
You'll think of me again — some day. 

You know full oft my loving hands 
Have lingered mid those glossy bands 
While I have round my fingers twirled 
Thy hair — to have its soft threads curled. 
But I shall see no touch of gray 
Amid those shining locks — some day. 

I'll brush away the falling tear 
That dims the eye when thou art near. 
While waves of sorrow o'er me roll 
Which are beyond the heart's control. 
For other love will hold its sway 
O'er thy sweet young life — some day. 



POEMS. 27 

Thou'lt oft-times feel my si)irit power 
In many a lonely quiet hour, 
And watch my face upon the wall 
Some day may hear its loving call, 
When I have passed forever away 
And cannot curl thy hair — some day. 

Wherever I flee, no matter where, 
Your loving image lingers there. 
So true thy inner life unfold 
A love for me that is untold. 
Dear one, there is a brighter ray 
Shining above for us — some day. 

Sweet one, thou'lt oft-times think of me 
Whenever thy hair is curled for thee. 
Should I not be within thy call 
Some loving hand may lightly fall 
Upon the head and thus convey 
Loving thoughts of me — some day. 

Some day I shall not feel as now 
Thy soft white hands upon my brow; 
Thou wilt not slight my light command. 
Or draw my tresses through thy hand. 
For silent then my form will lay. 
And thy sad tears will flow that day. 



2 8 POEMS. 

Then, while those drops are falling hot, 

Upon the lips that answer not, 

You'll take from mine one treasured tress, 

And leave the rest to silentness, 

You'll cherish what I used to say, 

And think of me again — some day. 



MY OLD FUR CAPE AND ROCKING CHAIR. 

My old fur cape 

And the rocking chair, 
Both are dear to my heart, 

Neither could I spare. 

One for the warmth 

And comfort it gave, 
The other for its use 

While rocking the babe. 

Over twenty long years 

I've sat in this chair, 
Money could not buy it, 

I love it, I declare. 



POEMS. 

Then, my old fur cape 
I'll cherish and wear, 

For the sake of its giver. 
With lenderest care. 

While this old chair 
Sweet memories bring 

Of babes in my arms 
While softly I sing. 

In lone hours of night 

If baby should cry, 
I arose from my bed 

Rocking-chair to try. 

To sooth little darling 

Again fast asleep, 
While I my own 

Lonely vigils did keep. 

Then this dear old cape 

All out of fashion, 
Would often put nie 

Quite in a passion. 

Yet I'll bear this affliction 
And contentedly rest. 

With my old fur cape 

Pressed close to my breast. 



29 



30 POEMS. 

For I love it far better 
As years roll around, 

And joy in the giver 

Whose love doth abound. 

While my old rocking chair 
Will an heirloom be, 

I'll treasure and preserve it, 
My darlings, for thee. 

Each one of you it rocked 
And oft hushed to sleep. 

While I fervently prayed 
God my little one keep. 

This dear old chair 
Will live in my heart. 

For sweet memories it bring, 
Till death us do part. 

My old fur cape 

Is as aged as this chair, 
I have preserved it well 

For my darlings to wear. 

Both the old fur cape 
And the rocking chair 

Are dear to my heart. 
Neither can I spare. 



POEMS. 



FAREWELL! WATCH HILL. 

To !MiS!s Blanch Whitney. 

Memory of old Watch Hill linger 
With loved friends we bid adieu, 

^^'ill live through life and cling forever, 
Though we say farewell to you. 

We shall meet with friendly greeting, 
Some day have the hand clasp o'er. 

Sit and watch the wild commotion 
Of the mighty ocean's roar. 

As the rippling waves dash onward 
While the bathers flounce about, 

Like many flounders in the water 
With their heads just peeping out. 

Oft in fancy we shall see thee. 
Although absent from our view, 

While thy softly whispered "dearie," 
Proves a loving heart in you. 

Oentle maiden, could I whisper 
Breathing words of love so sweet, 

Neath some quiet arbor sitting 
Thus would I my love repeat. 



32 POEMS. 

I'd worship at the shrine of goodness 
Deep imbedded in thy heart, 

For therein lies a wealth of beauty 
Thrilling till thy life depart. 

Adieu, sweet girl, my muse is over, 
Forget me not in thy reply. 

But send a kiss across the water 
That on thy love we may rely. 



ODE TO BIRDIE. 



Birdie, birdie, bright and free. 
Sweet little songster, I love thee, 
From my window I may look 
And hear thee warble in thy nook. 

Sitting alone thus I espy 
Together thy two bills apply. 
Pecking a hole within the tree 
Where thy pretty nest shall be. 

Gathering straw and bits of thread 
To complete thy downy bed, 
Sheltered neath the sun's bright ray. 
Little birdie sing, sing away. 



POEMS. 33 

Little birdie, tliou mayest rest 
With thy true mate at thy breast, 
Then as little birdlings spring 
Out their nest they'll sweetly sing. 

Tend them, birdie, with watchful care, 
From thy mouth their food prepare. 
Protected in their feathery nest. 
Little birdlings, thou art blest. 

Happy little fledgelings thee. 
Hopping, chirping right merrily, 
Gathering strength e'er they fly 
To soar away beyond the sky. 

Content in thy home thou'lt be, 
Wilt thou sing sweet songs for me ? 
As the twilight shades are deep'ning o'er 
Let thy voice thrill evermore. 

Winsome birdie, I trust that thee 
Will sing a perfect jubilee. 
Singing birds with thrilling song 
Help many a weary hour along. 

Thy sweet song doth cheer the heart. 

Lovely birdie, do not depart. 

Ere thou darteth far away. 

Sweet little songster, sing each day. 



POEMS. 

Birdie, thy songs will bring delight, 
Sing from morn to eve's twilight, 
Leave us not but sweetly sing, 
Thus ease our heart this early spring. 

Birdie, loved ones left to-day, 
Sailed from home so far away, 
Across the ocean's mighty deep. 
Left us lonely here to weep. 

While they cross the deep blue sea 
Wilt thou, sweet birdie, stay by me, 
And while the fleeting hours away. 
Thy singing bringeth joy to-day. 

Birdie, stay till their return, 
For thy song our heart doeth yearn. 
Thus, sweet songster, thou 'It impart 
A ray of sunshine to our heart. 

Birdie, at the dawn of day 
Begin thy song and sing away, 
Feathered warbler, singing sweet. 
Repeat thy song, dear bird, repeat. 

Birdie, listen, will you, pray, 
Though this be a simple lay. 
Let thy song be blithe, and long 
We'll listen to thy sweetest song. 



POEMS. 35 

Arouse us with thy silvery voice, 
Birdie, make our hearts rejoice, 
As we from our window peep 
While our lonely vigils keep. 

Birdie, when my race is run 
And my mission here is done, 
When within my bed I lie 
Wilt thou sing a lullaby ? 

Pearch above the w^avering grass, 
Where they lay me do not pass, 
A requiem o'er my grave thou'lt sing 
Often-times in early spring. 



THE FORSAKEN WIFE. 

Alone she sits within her dwelling, 
Pale with grief; her lustrous hair 

Falls o'er her brow in tangled masses; 
Eyes look out in sad desj^air. 

Struggling to restrain her feeling 
O'er this scathing, blighting blow. 

Tearless 'mid this wild commotion. 
That may her reason overthrow. 



36 POEMS. 

Step by step an evil passion 
Led him from his love astray, 

And a siren brought destruction 
O'er their life's bright, sunny way. 

Man or demon! pause, consider. 

Ere thy sun in darkness set, 
And remorse seize on thy conscience, 

Keeping thy soul in sad regret! 

Hasten to her loved devotion, 
Look upon her stricken face! 

So woe-begone in every feature 
That memory never can efface. 

Thy youthful days are gone forever. 
Age shows its furrows on thy brow; 

Thy wife is true, and fondly yearning 
For love's devotion — give it now. 

And live as though life's fitful fever 
Were drawing to its destined close; 

Then both thy souls in sweet communion 
May rest together in death's repose. 



POEMS. 37 



IN MEMORY OF OUR LATE DEPARTED PRES- 
IDENT, JAMES A. GARFIELD. 

He is not dead — but liveth 

In the Nation's heart each day, 

The man without a blemish 
Could not earthly pass away. 

He is not dead — but liveth 
In that noble woman's heart, 

Whose love ne'er perisheth, 
'Tis of her life a part. 

He is not dead — but liveth 

In his stricken mother's breast; 

Who can paint the anguish 
Since her darling went to rest? 

He is not dead — but liveth 
In those offsprings of his love, 

Whose filial heart yearneth 

For their Father in heaven above. 

He is not dead — but liveth, 
We claim with trusting pride, 

He whom every heart loveth 

O'er earth's broad expanse so wide. 



38 ^ POEMS. 

He is not dead — but liveth 

In our memory while we pray — 

Father, send more men like Garfield, 
Whom thou has called away. 

He is not dead — but liveth, 
This mourning far and near. 

Proves Garfield's living ever — 
Next an angel he'll appear. 

He is not dead — but liveth 

In the City of our God, 
With a crown upon his brow, 

He merits his reward. 



ON THE MARRIAGE OF A FRIEND. 

As thou stood beside the altar 
To plight the solemn vow, 

To be true and constant ever. 
To the one beside thee now. 

Thy sweet voice did not falter, 
While o'er your gentle face. 

Came a look of fond devotion 
That time will ne'er efface. 



POEMS. 39 

May no cloud ever o'ershadow 

This beautiful life begun, 
May the joy that abideth ever, 

Be thine till life is done. 

Thou lovely one so trusting, 

I ne'er before had met, 
Thy voice so low Init thrilling. 

We can never, never more forget. 

As thee knelt before the altar, 
Thoughts of a happier day, 

Through bygone years I wander 
To youth's bright sunny way. 

I'm aged now, though trusting, 
Ere I do from earth depart, 

A ray of beautiful sunshine 
May yet illume my heart. 

Adieu! sweet one, I'm wishing 
Both thy lives may happy be, 

While thee and thine so loving. 
May sometimes think of me. 



40 POEMS. 



THE SWEET BY AND BY. 

Oh! mother, gentle mother, 

Try to hush the smothered cry, 

Leave her with her Saviour — 
In the sweet by and by. 

There you in rapture meeting. 
When called from earth to die, 

You'll unite with thy darling — 
In the sweet by and by. 

In beautiful Heaven yonder. 
The Great City you'll espy, 

The angels there are waiting — 
In the sweet by and by. 

'Tis not long, remember. 

Ere we in silence lie. 
Life's trials then are over — 

In the sweet by and by. 

Oh! who would live forever. 

Bereft of love we sigh. 
And cling unto the future — 

In the sweet by and by. 



POEMS. 41 

She saw the crown awaiting, 

The world she could defy, 
And fled unto her Saviour, 

In the sweet by and by. 

Is awaiting there so meekly, 

That thou mayst fortify 
Thyself and live forever — 

In the sweet by and by. 

This beautiful one so gifted, 
Our Father's love did purify, 

Is flitting with the angels — 
In the sweet by and by. 

A lightsome brilliant morning 
Will beam bright to glorify, 

Lighting up at Heaven's portals — 
In the sweet by and by. 

Then, mother, loving mother, 
Try to hush the smothered sigh, 

For thy darling Carrie's waiting — 
In the sweet by and by. 



42 POEMS. 



IN MEMORIAM. 

She has not fled forever, 

But has gained the better part, 

Then leave her with her Saviour 
Till yow from earth depart. 

There in rapture meeting 
In a brighter world above, 

Are darling ones awaiting 

To repay you with their love. 

In yonder Heaven watching 
The Great City of our God, 

Pure spirits there are waiting 
To greet thee with reward. 

'Twill not be long, remember. 

Ere we return to God ; 
Life's trials then are over 

When we sleep beneath the sod. 

Oh, who would live and suffer. 

When there's rest in Heaven sweet ; 

If we only love our Saviour 
We may sit at Jesus' feet. 



POEMS. 43 

She saw the crown awaiting 

Ere from earth she passed away, 

Then shed no tear of sorrow, 
Be happy while you may. 

She's waiting there, an angel, 
With outstretched arms of- love, 

To enfold thee in so fondly 
When thou art called above. 

This lovely hope ought ever 
Shed o'er life's weary way — 

Thrill thy soul with rapture 
Until the light of day 

Breaks o'er in shining beauty. 
Lighting up beyond the sky ; 

Heaven's portal then will open. 
On this hope we may rely. 

Then, mother, loving mother, 

Leave her with her God 
Until the glorious resurrection. 

Thou 'It bear the chast'ning rod. 



44 POEMS. 



COME BACK, COME BACK, FROM O'ER THE 
SEA. 

Come back, come back from o'er the sea, 
Our heart it yearneth oft for thee ; 
' Our little band " so far away. 
My muse will l)e for thee to-day. 

Come back, come back from o'er the deep, 
For many a tear-drop oft we weep ; 
May our Heavenly Father guide thy way, 
And return thee home some early day. 

Come back, come back, is ever our song. 
While weary months roll slowly along ; 
When shall we hear each winsome voice 
That oft-times made our hearts rejoice. 

Come back, come back, we want thee home, 
While thou afar from us doth roam. 
And other beautiful lands thou'lt see. 
Is not thy home more dear to thee ? 

Come back, come back, our heart doth sigh. 
Will thine in unison reply ? 
While affection cling and love abide. 
Thou wilt not long from us reside. 



POEMS. 45 

Come back, come back unto our shore, 
This lonely life we do deplore ; 
.We long to clasp thee to our heart, 
In love's embrace, and never part. 

Come back, come back, affection true, 
Thus dedicates these lines to you : 
Remembrance links her love with thee. 
From far across the deep blue sea. 

Come back, come back, our darling dear, 
We are lonely without you here. 
And would clasp thee to our heart, 
And never, never from thee part. 

Come back, come back, my darling boy, 
'Twill bring to our hearts great joy ; 
Fondly I kissed thee last farewell, 
Thou'lt ever in our memory dwell. 

Come back, come back, "our little band," 
We'll welcome to our native land 
Those that sailed so far away 
From our shore one April day. 

Come back, come back in dreams at night ! 
Oft we see each form in sight. 
And clasp thee in our arms, awake 
To find this phantom us forsake. 



46 POEMS. 

Come back, come back, so lonely we feel, 
While o'er us the evening twilight steal ; 
Then, as the days and months grow longer 
Our yearning hearts for thee doth wander. 

Come back, come back, from o'er the sea. 
Our loving hearts go out to thee ; 
" Our little band " we would behold 
While we thus our love unfold. 



OUR WINSOME LITTLE WINNIE. 

Our winsome little Winnie, 
With heart so light and free, 

Carrolls like the young birdie 
That flits from tree to tree. 

We have found her winning, 
And would not from her part ; 

She is a lovely maiden. 
Bless her little heart. 



FOEMS. 47 

A beautiful light is beaming 

O'er her sweet young face, 
W'hich is love's endearing charm 

'i'hat time can ne'er efface. 

He left this offspring of His love 
A home with love abounding ; 

Satan oft leads the heart astray, 
But God is more astounding. 

Winsome Winnie, a kind adieu, 
Thou pure and gentle maiden ; 

While o'er life's weary way pursue 
The path that leads to Heaven. 



THE BRIDAL DAY OF LILLIE. 

Fair Lillie, on thy bridal day, 
Wilt listen to my simple lay. 
Will love be always bright as now. 
While you thus pronounce the vow, 
And go from home a maiden pure ? 
Will thy true love ever endure. 
Life may not be one sunny morn, 
Oft comes tempest mid the storm ; 



48 POEMS. 

Clouds will oft obscure thy way, 
Thou canst scatter them all away 
By thy own pure life within, 
Let it ever be free from sin. 
Thou hast promised to love, obey, 
He to cherish thee o'er life's way ; 
Keep those vows ever in view. 
Oft each other's love review ; 
Let thy guiding star through life 
Be ever a true and loving wife. 
Sweet Lillie, thy maiden life is o'er. 
Thy mother's heart is weeping sore ; 
'Mid heartfelt blessings she bid thee go, 
And on another thy love bestow. 
From sweet home, where thy young life 
Has been spent free from strife. 
She who watched with tenderest care. 
Bestowed on thee the heart-felt prayer; 
Even the lover thou lovest best, 
AVho has so often thee caressed, 
Has never watched as many years 
As mother has, and oft with tears. 
Around thy little cradled bed, 
With patient care and softest tread, 
Fearing to awake thee in thy sleep. 
While praying God her babe to keep. 



POEMS. 49 

Mother is a sweet and sacred name. 
Love her, Lillie, ever the same ; 
As days and years roll around, 
You'll often listen for the sound. 
And yearn to hear that loving voice 
That oft-times made thy heart rejoice. 
Lillie, these few lines from me, 
Are written in kindest love for thee ; 
Fare thee well, sweet Lillie, bride, 
God bless thee by another's side ; 
May both thy lives happy be. 
And thou sometimes think of me. 



OUR JAPANESE PUG. 

While sitting at the table 

Eating of our meals, 
Onr little Pug Flossie 

Around the table steals. 

Our Japanese Pug 
Is getting all the go ; 

We have one at our house, 
You ought to see Flo. 



50 POEMS. 

How well she pays attention 
Whenever I raise my hand, 

And walks into the kitchen 
At once at my command. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



She's fond of every luxury, 
Especially hickory nut cake ; 

She once jumped upon the table. 
Eating the best one I did bake. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



The Pug receives attention 
As pet of the household ; 

You need not others mention, 
If Flo is in the cold. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



Then she's quite expensive, 
This tormenting little pet ; 

That cost one hundred dollars, 
Please do not this forget. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



POEMS. 51 

Its little tricks are cunning, 
Which I'm oft brought to view, 

I see nothing in this animal 

Worth paying this money for, do you? 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



This provoking little animal, 
Even though I may protest. 

Runs about so comical. 
Giving none of us a rest. 

•Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



Being c^uite an expert 
In everything but talk. 

Ere long they may convert her 
To speak as well as walk. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



She keeps the house quite lively. 
With her cute little pranks ; 

And jumps about as nimbly 
As any of the cranks. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



52 POEMS. 

This pretty little cjuadruped, 
With its antique face, 

Is full of animation. 

And wonderful in its grace. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



I contend this little Pug 
Be kept within its place, 

And not all the family snug, 
Or kiss its comic face. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 

While we admit 'tis winning, 
We hope this tiny mite 

May never our caress repay 
By its venomous bite. 

Our Japanese Pug, etc. 



POEMS. 53 



ON THE MARRIAGE OF WINNIE. 

On our winsome little Winnie 
I must write another lay, 

Who has been getting married, 
To her true love we'll say. 

She was a winsome maiden 

Just within her teens, 
I trust she may be happy 

And no sorrow intervenes. 

Has she wisely chosen. 

Her future life will tell, 
While in close communion 

She with another dwell. 

Should thy merry life darken 
Or sorrow cloud the brow. 

That no ray of sunshine brighten, 
Winnie, hearken to me now. 

Lift thy prayer to Heaven, 
The fount of true relief ; 

He will surely guide thee 

In thy hour of greatest grief. 



54 POEMS. 

I shall e'er remember thee 
A winsome maiden free, 
Who should be so joyous 
• In her innocence and glee. 

By thy fond affection 

Thou mayest the conqueror be, 
And keep in good subjection 

One truly devoted to thee. 

United in love forever 

May this beautiful life l)egun, 

Bring to thee pure pleasure 
'Till thy earthly work is done. 

Our winsome little Winnie, 
Ere I lay my pen away, 

I commend thee to thy Maker, 
Be life one joy or stormy way. 



POEMS. 55 



LAUGHING EYES. 

Laughing eyes — innocent beauty, 
Guileless in thy maiden pride, 

Ever respect thy filial duty, 
Purity and love in thee abide. 

Laughing eyes, men are deceiving. 
Vow they love thee to desp^air; 

Trust them not— those so assuring 
Mean not half what they declare. 

Laughing eyes— men are alluring; 

I bid thee of their vows beware; 
They may say that art charming, 

While they have a love elsewhere. 

Laughing eyes— sound thy lover; 

Before thou giv'st thyself away 
Into the keeping of another, 

Ponder well on what I say. 

Laughing eyes, adieu!— may never 
Sorrow cause thy heart to weep; 

One so pure and gentle, ever 

We pray, our Heavenly Father keep. 



56 FOEMS. 



IN MEMORIAM. 

On the Death of Bertha Shllts. 

Departed for the Spirit land; 

Gone, this sweet bud of beauty, 
To mingle with the chosen band. 

Our darling is resting sweetly. 

This budding flower we resign; 

Its beauty will cling forever; 
Around the heart there entwine 

Love for our dear one ever. 

Our shining light has earthly fled, 
Anchored safe in harbor; 

Sleeping sweetly, thou art not dead- 
Only gone unto thy Father. 

While sadly our sorrowing heart 
Is in deepest anguish riven. 

Until we from earth depart 

To meet our darling in Heaven. 



POEMS. 57 



RETROSPECTION. 



While seated alone, 

One bright summer day, 
Breathing the perfume 

Of a beautiful spray 
That I held in my hand, 

While pulling it apart 
I thought of the sweetness 

Rent from a heart ! 
Like the fragrance of a flower 

We may liken a life: 
If torn from its stem, 

'Mid tumult and strife, 
'Twill wither and die. 

Like a beauteous flower. 
If plucked at its root. 

In an unguarded hour 
Such ofttimes is our life, 

In its springtime of love. 
Its sunny day beaming. 

Like bright stars above. 
So joyous and happily 

Gliding onward (juite free. 
Joy flows the young bosom 

O'er with love's estacy, 



58 POEMS. 

Till the blighting chill falls, 
Leaving it bleeding and sore; 

No bud or bright blossom 
Will bloom evermore. 



TO SADIE. 



The impress of my hand I lay 
Upon this spotless paper; 

A few kind words I would say — 
Will Sadie this remember ? 

Nought can fill a mother's love, 
Or a father's love dissever; 

It lives till they are called above- 
Will Sadie this remember ? 

Other love may thrill thy heart. 
But mother's love is dearer; 

It clings forever till life depart — 
Will Sadie this remember. 

Thou gentle one, love will meet 
In its mate for one another; 

We in after years may greet — 
Will Sadie this remember ? 



POEMS. 59 

If for me a passing thought 
Should thrill thy bosom ever, 

'Tis a feeling not unsought — 
Will Sadie this remember. 

Fare thee well, sweet girl, to thee. 
Thy memory is dear forever; 

I would not forgotten be — 
Will Sadie me remember ? 



REMEMBRANCE. 



When little ones, bright and free. 
We bounded forth together. 

Thou art still as dear to me. 
And will be forever and ever. 

Our childhood days and loving ways 
Live fresh in memory ever; 

Tripping forth o'er hills and dales, 
Love bound our hearts together. 

I was the elder of the two, 
And oft was thy protector; 

With affections kind and true. 
None loved thee any better. 



6o POEMS. 

Hearts do sigh o'er years fled 
Since those sunny days together; 

Too quickly youthful days sped 
Home — and our dear mother. 

Memory oft recalls those days, 
Though past forgotten never, 

Heart, though grieved, forever lays 
True, in my breast, remember. 

Grief do rend the heart apart, 
Leave it bleeding, torn asunder, 

Affection gains the better part 
When we may meet up yonder. 

Should we never meet again 
Till greeted by our Saviour ; 

He will there in Heaven restore 
Our lo've for ever and ever. 

The evil one oft tears apart 
Those in love abounding. 

And pierces many a tender heart, 
But God is more astounding. 

When this weary life is over 
We may see our way aright, 

While our eternal Heavenly Father 
Guides our si)irit to the right. 



POEMS. 6 1 

Fare thee well — a kind adieu, 
The heart beats true as ever; 

If not on earth, Heaven will view 
Us, right or wrong, remember. 



STITCHING. 



I sat by my window stitching, 
As I have sat for many a day, 

Little daughter returning home — 
" Mamma stitching again," say. 

" Yes, little one, I'm stitching, 
My fingers must busy be ; 

I'll improve my time in stitching 
As long as I can see." 

This weary life by stitching 
Helps to pass the time away, 

I think while I sit stitching, 
Will this work ever repay. 

I'll still keep on my stitching 
Till my earthly mission's o'er, 

Thou'lt not forget my stitching 
When I'm gone forever more? 



62 POEMS. 

My muse has been on stitching. 

Having laid my needle away, 
And taken up my pen for variety- 

I have nothing more to say. 



ON THE PRESENTATION OF A ROCKING- 
CHAIR TO 

Thou'lt remember me, if living. 
And when I've passed away 

As you sit resting, rocking 
In this easy chair, some day ? 

Oft-times while thou art musing 

In this cosey little chair. 
If I'm in silence sleeping 

Thou'lt breathe in earnest prayer. 

For the soul that's fled forever. 
And freed from care and woe — 

Where only God, the giver — 
May his heavenly love bestow. 

Thy memory oft will wander 
When my life's journey's o'er; 

While thou wilt often wonder 
That I've gone for evermore. 



POEMS. 63 

Rock and rest thou, weary one, 

For faithful thou hast been; 
Keep life pure and holy, 

And free from earthly sin. 

The light will fade, remember 

From out thy gentle eye: 
Thoul't trust in thine Redeemer — 

On Him thou can'st rely. 

May this little rocker ever 

Rest thee, thou weary one, 
When thy daily toil is over. 

And thou returnest home. 

Oft will this little rocker 

Rest thee many a day, 
Till your earthly mission's over. 

And thy Saviour calls away. 

Since years ago our meeting. 

Oft we sat side by side; 
Thou were always yielding, 

And ever kind replied. 

When grandma sits a-rocking. 

Hushing baby fast to sleep. 
Or, may be, darning stocking, 

Wliile her lonely vigil keep. 



64 POEMS. 

Thou shouldst love her dearly, 
For her tenderness and care, 

And cherish her so fondly. 
Ere she is called elsewhere. 

Be thou happy all together, 
Let love illume thy way. 

While each heart is true and tender 
She will find a sunny ray. 

I would not be forgotten 
In the country far away ; 

As you sit resting, rocking. 

Think we'll meet again some day. 

Then rock and be quite happy, 
And sing thy gentle song; 

Some day I'll be returning 
To the home where I belong. 

Again we'll meet as ever 
While we this life pursue; 

Now this little chair remember 
I would present to you. 



POEMS. • 65 



OUR LITTLE BAND. 

While out on the boundless ocean, 
Though stormy and rough the sea, 

When thou gazest on foaming billows, 
God is still watching over thee. 

'J"hy faith should never waver, 

The steamer is staunch and strong, 

Have perfect trust in thy Saviour, 
He will carry thee safely along. 

Though o'er it wild winds sweeping, 
The vessel rides bravely the waves; 

Light o'er the tempest is stealing, 
'Tis our Father's love that saves. 

Afar o'er the surging billows, 
Beyond the deep blue sea, 

Hearts throb with love's emotion, 
With kindest thoughts of thee. 

Then as thou'lt journey onward, 

And fairer lands behold; 
Forget not warm hearts waiting 

For thee with love untold. 



66 POEMS. 



WE HAVE MET AND COLDLY PARTED. 

We have met and coldly parted. 
Each to go our separate way, 

Though we once were happy-hearted, 
What has caused this grief to-day? 

We have met and coldly parted, 
I thought I could on thee rely, 

One to whom thy love was plighted, 
In those days that have gone by. 

We have met and coldly parted, 
Must, O, must this ever be ? 

Lingers not one thrill of feeling 
In thy bosom's depth for me ? 

We have met and coldly parted, 

No love lit up thine eye, 
While o'er thy brow a look is stealing, 

Chills me, pausing thus I sigh. 

f 

We have met and coldly parted, 

Yet thou 'It sorrow when I die; 
Keen regret for one departed. 

As they heep the cold ground ligh. 



POEMS. 67 



'TIS MANY LONG YEARS, I REMEMBER. 

"I'is many long years, I remember, 

Since first 1 beheld thy face, 
Beaming all over with beautiful smiles, 

Nought can its memory efface. 

'Tis many long years, I remember, 
Since we breathed in accents low; 

Dear one, how much I love thee. 
The depth of my heart thou know. 

"I'is many long years, I remember, 
Thy voice was soft and sweet; 

Thou promised to love me ever, 
Lovingly those words did repeat. 

"I'is many long years, 1 remember, 
Yet this love Til ne'er forget; 

It thrilled my being younger. 

Clings around my heart-strings yet. 

'Tis many long years, I remember. 
Our life is drawing to its close; 

Youth has too (juickly vanished, 
Soon we'll lie in silent repose. 



68 POEMS. 

'Tis many long years, I remember 
That our race is nearly run; 

Old age, and a sable mantle, 
'J'hen the setting of our sun. 



FRIENDSHIP'S OFFERING. 

Mother, do not feel despondent, 
God is watching o'er thy way 

Together thee and your darling, 
And will keep from stormy day. 

Oft I've sat within thy dwelling. 
Peace came o'er my weary soul, 

And I felt a love there dwelling 
Bevond the weary heart's control. 

For a while a little shadow 
- Will darken round thy household 
He will lift thy every sorrow. 
There is joy for thee untold. 

Trust, gentle one, time will heal 
Thy wounded heart of sorrow. 

While unto God thou dost appeal 
There'll come a brighter morrow. 



POEMS. 69 

Oft bitter wrongs may rend apart 
While o'er this heart there's feeling, 

Causing the bitter tear-drop start 
While thus our love revealing. 

Affection clings, 'twill ne'er depart 

Until our life day's closing, 
When from earthly ties we part, 

While calm in death reposing. 

O'er thy smiling face oft I trace 
A beautiful light there beaming ; 

Then throw dull care away to-day, 
Waste no more time in grieving. 

Adieu, sweet one, forget me not, 
While I'll class thee of the number 

That hold a place within my heart, 
"rill restina; in death's slumber. 



RETURNING HOME. 

Welcome, welcome, little band 

From a far off distant land. 

We'll press thee to our hearts once more 

While our being thrills with joy. 



POEMS. 

Three long months have passed away 
Since you sailed one April day, 
Far across the deep blue sea, 
Fairer lands thou wished to see. 

Many a tear drop filled the eye. 
Oft for thee our hearts did sigh ; 
Now we're overjoyed to see 
Though returned safe to me. 

\Vith thy journey safely o'er, 
Which thou'lt remember evermore, 
Was there a place more sweet to thee 
Than America, land of the free ? 

Welcome, welcome, little band, 

From a far off distant land ; 

We'll clasp thee to our hearts once more 

While our being thrills with joy. 



TO A BEREAVED ONE. 

Thy mother's earthly sufferings over. 
She's freed forever from grief or pain 

In Heaven the mystery is unfolded 
Why she could not here remain. 



POEMS. 7 1 

'J'hrough thy loss she is gaining 
A beautiful life beyond the tomb ; 

Gently dry those eyes from weeping, 
Hope to meet beyond this gloom. 

Those lovely ones with tender soothing, 
Who watched beside the sufferer's bed, 

Eased their grandma's life's day closing 
Ere she was numbered with the dead. 

Trust at the pearly gate she's waiting 

With the portal open wide ; 
\Vhen, at the close of thy existence 

He'll therein let thy spirit glide. 

Our mothers, both, are silently sleeping 
Safe in the bosom of their God ; 

Left our hearts thus sadly weeping, 
"rill we sleep beneath the sod. 

Oft will tears flow unbidden, 

In the silent hours of night, 
For those loved ones ne'er forgotten. 

Though they are beyond our sight. 

A glimmering light is leading onward 

To this home beyond the sky. 
If we trust our Heavenly Father, 

We may meet them by and by. 



72 POEMS. 

Alas, when loving hearts do sever, 
Nought can heal the Hngering pain ; 

The anguish is forgotten never 
"Fill we unite in Heaven ay-ain. 



HOME LOVE. 

Shall I picture a beautiful Eden, 
Full of promise rich and rare, 

'J'ill the " evil one " there enter, 
Waiting to the heart ensnare ? 

Home with little children's prattle. 
Beautiful little Hebes they were; 

Oft their winsome, joyous gladness. 
Rang out on the evening air. 

Ne'er dreaming aught could enter 
Within this home to bring despair, 

Amid their hearthstone's peaceful center 
Until the " evil one " enter there. 

Quickly fled their joyous laughter. 
Bitter tears with sad lament. 

As they saw, far in the distance, 
What this "evil one" there meant. 



POEMS. 73 

With lier oily tongue all sweetness, 

Wishing but to lead astray, 
She soon willingly led one captive 

By this artful, base display. 

Home love we can ne'er dissever, 
Its fibers cling around the heart, 

Thrilling every joy with pleasure, 
Ere the " evil one " rend apart. 

Years have fled far in the distance 
Since those days of sunny love. 

That linger and abide forever, 
Till the spirit rests above. 



REQUEST OF A YOUNG LADY TO HER 
LOVER. 

Place one bud within my hand, 
Lay upon my breast a number. 

This request of thee, my friend, 
Wilt thou me remember ? 

Within the casket, sleeping sound, 

Her earthly mission ended, 
Weeping friends all around, 

A\'hose hearts are sadly rended. 



74 POEMS. 

This lovely one, freed from earth, 
Is beyond our fond caressing, 

On her Heavenly home relies, 
Our Saviour's promised blessing. 

If love the test, thou wert blest 
In receiving her devotion; 

Ere she passed to quiet rest, 
She tested thy affection. 

Adieu, sweet one, we'll ne'er forget 
Thee in thy bed of roses; 

A\'hile loving friends oft may tell. 
Thy soul in Heaven reposes. 



LITTLE MAYBEL. 



Little Maybel, snow-drop, angel , 
Lent awhile to cheer our heart. 

Sweet little fiower in thy casket, 
Must, O, must you thus depart ? 

Little Maybel, bud of promise, 
Treasure in thy Father's fold, 

Lovely child gone to Heaven, 
Thy beauty there will unfold. 



POEMS. 75 

Little Maybel, snow-drop, lovely, 
Could we only have thee kept ! 

(rrandma loved her baby fondly, 
Thou could not stay, darling pet. 

Little Maybel, snow-drop, ever, 
Gone to join the chosen choir, 

Left us grieving, O so sadly, 
In our lone and sad despair. 

Little Maybel, snow-drop, waiting 
In thy beautiful home of light, 

'I'ill the morn of resurrection, * 

There with loved ones to unite. 

Little Maybel, snow-drop, flitting 
'Mid the angels robed in white, 

Chanting forth songs of praises. 
Just beyond us, out of sight. 



TO MOTHER. 



.Six little angels robed in white. 
When you cross God's portal. 

With crown on brow will unite 
And clasp you there immortal. 



76 POEMS. 



HAPPY MOTHER. 

Happy motlier, with thy baby 
Pressed so closely to the heart, 

May this pretty little darling 
Prove a blessing till life depart. 

While it grows in infant beauty 
We its cunning prattle trace. 

As the lovely blue eyes sparkle 
Dimples deepen o'er its face. 

Cling, sweet babe, unto thy mother. 
Let true love illume the way, 

Only by this fond devotion 
Can you ever the debt repay. 

Whenever I behold thee fondle 
Baby love within thine arms. 

Then in fancy I go roving 

O'er other days and baby charms. 

Oft-times have I rocked my baby 
When an infant just like thine. 

Cradled in my lap reposing 
Precious was this baby mine. 



POEMS. 77 

Mother, may thy lovely darling 
Ever express its love for thee, 

Until the life's day is closing 
Ever devoted thou wilt be. 

Fare thee well, happy mother, 
With sweet babe upon thy knee. 

When thou read these pages over, 
1 shall not then forgotten be. 



FARE THEE WELL. 



Fare thee well, must we sever? 

Thou to cross the deep, blue sea, 
Were it the will of our creator 

This should our last parting be. 

I bid thee God speed with my blessing, 
Trusting ever my faith in Thee, 

Our Heavenly Father's each protector. 
Whatever is our fate to l)e. 

The rolling, tumbling, fathomless ocean 

Oft in fancy we shall see. 
In dreams we're oft-times in commotion. 

Restless, tenderly we'll think of thee. 



78 POEMS. 

Will absence make the heart grow fonder 
Through this journey o'er the sea ? 

When the days and months seem longer 
Thou wilt not forgotten be. 

Wilt thou hear my prayer and answer — 
Bless them wheresoever they flee, 

Either upon the billowy ocean 
Or where fairer lands they see. 



A WISH. 

I wish for tliee, mother, 

With the kindest affection, 
Long years of true happiness. 

And beautiful love, 
From all the beloved ones 

That around you do mingle. 
Trusting devoted affection. 

And love from above. 



POEMS. 79 



ON THE DEATH OF LULU. 

Lulu's at rest in the arms of her Saviour, 
Who said, " Suffer little children to come 
unto me." 
Sweet bird of bright promise resting so 
sweetly 
With Jesus in glorious immortalit\'. 

Transi)lanted to Heaven this bud of sweet 
beauty 
Ere blossomed on earth to a full blooming 
flower; 
Its perfume and beauty fill the i)ortals of 
Heaven, 
Around the bright throne in its beautiful 
bower. 

(iod's mysteries, mother, we may never 
discover, 
Till called from this earth where all is 
revealed; 
While resting our faith in our kind, gentle 
Saviour, 
Our trust in Sweet Heaven forever is 
sealed. 



8o POEMS. 

There with dear Lulu, your bright little 
cherub, 
Your spirits will mingle in Heaven's own 
light; 
United forever, your light ever shining, 

And nothing obscuring your vision all 
l)right. 

Be happy, kind mother, though Lulu's de- 
parted; 
Never let your sweet eyes overflow with sad 
tears; 
Take up the cross meekly: the crown will l)e 
brighter, 
When called from this earth and eternitv 
appears. 



POEMS. 8 1 

SADNESS. 

Bear with me kindly — 

Speak to me gently, — 
Ere long this deep sea of grief 

Will have pass'd o'er; 
And I shall go from you, 

A weary, lone pilgrim ; 
From this world of strife free, 

On Eternity's shore. 

Alone and forsaken, 

God only my beacon, 
In this gloomy hour 

Of my greatest distress, 
I'll brave the dark billows — 

Let seas roll between us. 
But bear with me kindly 

When beyond thy caress. 

As God is my helper 

In this deep affliction, 
Which has dried up my life-blood 

And sear'd my poor brain, — 
Left nought in this dark world 

To see or to wish for ; 
Oh, stop my sad heart 

In its pulse beat of pain. 



82 POEMS. 

The last blow is stricken, — 

I bow with submission; 
All that soul ever struggled through 

I have pass'd o'er; 
Yet my God will sustain me, 

And bear me on bravely. 
Until I have pass'd through 

To yon Heavenly shore. 

O'er the dark water 

I'll take my departure, 
And flee for sweet rest 

To a quiet retreat. 
Thou'lt not forget one, 

Who did so adore thee, 
Too late! no kind love 

Will her ever more greet. 

Bear with me kindly, — 

I love you so truly; 
My heart weeping tears of blood 

O'er my dark way. 
I'll think of you sweeth — 

Remember thee kindly, — 
Till gone to my Saviour, 

Will most earnestly ])ray. 



POEMS. 83 

That when I have left thee, 

Some kind recollection 
Of remembrance will come 

In deep silence of night. 
In dreams o'er thy pillow, 

And gently caress thee. 
As when dear little ones, 

So loving and bright. 

That I've press'd to my bosom 

In fondest affection. 
And cherish'd with loving 

And tender delight, 
Never dreaming dark clouds 

Would ever o'ershadow 
Our pathway, and leave us 

In darkness and blight. 

Yet in the dim distance 

The shadow is breaking; 
A beacon-light beams 

Above the bright sky, 
'I'hat is leading me onward. 

With faith in my Saviour, 
He soon will receive me 

In heaven on high. 



84 POEMS. 

Then bear with me gently — 

Speak to me kindly, — 
Those that I've cherish'd 

Are dear to my heart; 
Ere my life's ended, 

On thy love I depended, 
Oh, speak to me fondly 

Ere from earth I depart. 



DO I LOVE THEE? 



Do I love thee ? Go and ask the flowers 
If they love the sweet, refreshing showers. 

Do I love thee ? Dost thou recall the time 
When first pressed to thy heart as thine? 

Do I love thee ? Forget not the first kiss, 
When we thought our love was bliss. 

Do I love thee ? Can we ever forget, 
Until our sun on earth has set ? 

Do I love thee ? Tongue can never tell 
How much I love thee, or how well. 

Do I love thee ? Would you have me say 
My heart is thine till my dying day ? 



POEMS. 85 

Do I love thee ? Oft in silent thought 
Thy image to my mind is brought. 

Do I love thee? Yes, as the miser his gold. 
Who hugs it closely, yet counts it untold. 

I will ever truly love thee, and thy love I'll 

ne'er resign ; 
While life may last my i)urest love shall be 

forever thine. 



NO, NEVER MORE! 

Farewell ! — we are parted now I — 
On thy heart and on thy brow 
Is a shadow dark as night, 
Which doth all my being blight: 
We may meet on earth no more. 
No, never more ! 

"ris with grief I am amazed, — 
We coldly on each other gazed: 
While dark shadows deepen o'er, 
We our lives must now deplore. 
And may meet on earth no more. 
No, never more ! 



86 POEMS. 

Many a year may yet pass by 
Ere we're called from earth, and die. 
Then lift the sorrow from the heart 
Ere we from this world depart: 
We may meet on earth no more. 
No, never more ! 

Each to go our separate way, — 
Meet no more till judgment day, — 
When, all grief and suffering o'er, 
No more our lives on earth deplore: 
We may meet on earth no more. 
No, never more I 

'Tis with grief and heartfelt sigh 
That I say the sad good-bye, 
When we live our lives apart 
The tear-drops oft for thee will start: 
We may meet on earth no more. 
No, never more ! 

Farewell, then! — a fond adieu ! — 
If I meet no more with you. 
There's a home in Heaven above 
Will not shut out those whom we love. 
Where I may rest for ever more. 
Yes, ever more! 



POEMS. 87 



MARRIAGE OF A YOUNG FRIEND. 

Marriage, sweet girl, sends a thrill through my 

heart 
Which the terrors of death could never impart. 
You give your young life to your husband to 

keep, — 
A jewel more precious than the wealth of the 

deep. 

May his love be as deep as the depths of the 
ocean, — 

May no sorrow e'er mar the heart's fond de- 
votion ; 

And may you ne'er be like a ship founder'd 
at sea. 

With no mate at the helm to watch over thee. 

May your lives ever glide on in pleasure com- 
plete; 

When from earth you depart in Heaven mav 
you meet; 

.\nd then ever together in the bright world 
above. 

May you be clasped in the embrace of eternal 
love. 



88 POEMS. 



THE DEATH OF lONE. 

As I looked within the casket. 
At the lovely sleeper there, 

And thought of her hereafter, 
Who did for Heaven prepare. 

Her face was so angelic. 

To see her was to feel 
Her pure spirit was in Heaven. 

At our Saviour's feet to kneel. 

Then, mother, trust your daughter 
Will be waiting there for thee, 

To welcome you to heaven 

When from this life you're free. 

I can see a light of glory 

Around her angel form, 
As she welcomes you, her mother. 

From this bleak world of storm. 

And father, too, and brother. 
She'll be watching for above; 

Awaiting you in Heaven, 

With outstretched arms of love. 



POEMS. 

And Alice, her only sister, 
Will not be forgotten there. 

If she trusts in her Redeemer, 
With heartfelt, earnest prayer. 

Then do not grieve, kind mother. 
That lone has gone before, 

To wait for you in Heaven, 
On the bright, eternal shore. 

Be cheerful, mother, ever. 
And happy while you may; 

For you'll surely meet your darling 
At the resurrection-dav. 



DEAD LOVE. 



It comes too late, that smile alluring — 
Too late for me the smothered sigh; 

The love is dead, so long enduring. 
For one who passed me coldly by. 

Too late to bridge the deep gulf over; 

Closed the floodgate to the heart; 
There is a grief too deep for weeping. 

Where never more the teardrops start. 



90 POEMS. 

Think not the void within ray heart 
Can Idc filled with golden treasure: 

The gift of love might do a part 
To bridge this deep gulf over. 

Years of agony have chilled a heart 
Love long for thee enduring^ 

Now rent apart no teardrops start 
O'er the grave of this lost feeling. 

Sorrows turn the heart to stone, — 
Leave it bleeding, rent asunder, 

(iriefs that let no teardrops start 
Have left me of that number. 

Then wonder not, for every heart 
Sooner or later may discover 

It was not well to tear apart 
Love once lost is lost forever. 



IN MEMORY OF MRS. W. E. HORWILL. 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 
An angel bright art thou, — 

With a harp within thy hand. 
And a crown upon thine brow. 



POEMS. 9 1 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 
Laid away in peaceful rest, — 

Thy cold hands folded gently 
Across your clay-cold breast. 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 

Your many deeds of love 
Are recorded up in heaven, 

And thou'lt reap thy reward above. 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 
Full oft our hearts will weep, 

God eternal up in heaven 
Will thee ever safely keep. 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 
Thy pure spirit, robed in white, 

Enter'd into life immortal, 
There with angels to unite. 

Thou art gone, but not forgotten: 
Gone to join the chosen band, — 

At thy Father's feet now sitting. 
Crown on brow and harp in hand. 



92 POEMS. 



IN MEMORIAM. 

Beautiful Ida. 

Oft thy beauteous saintlike face 
Shines o'er my weary way, — 

O'erwhehns my soul while I trace 
Thee a spirit in Heaven to-day. 

And while I thus enraptured gaze 
On thy lovely face, I'm weeping — 

Remember'd days, and thy loving ways. 
While thou in death art sleeping. 

In fancy oft I see thee yet: 
Ever thy sparkling eye of blue 

Reflecting light and love upon 

The friends whom once thee knew. 

And oft in fancy now I paint 

Thy many acts of love; 
Thy angelic life without restraint 

Was meant for Heaven above. 

Now thou hast joined the angel band, 
Though friends on earth are grieving 

With crown on brow and harp in hand, 
Thy reward thou art receiving. 



POEMS. 93 

REMEMBRANCE. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For how can I forget 
One moonlight eve of summer, 

When first by chance we met 
On the loveliest isle that sparkles 

In our own blue native sea, — 
'Tis a chain that binds me ever 

To loving thoughts of thee. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For how can I forget ? 
Those moonlight eves of summer 

Though past, I may regret: 
For we have met and parted, — 

Each to go our separate way, — 
'Tis a thought that lingers ever. 

And the past recalls to-day. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For how can I forget? 
Fond memories of my girlhood 

Twine round my heartstrings yet; 
And still the heart doth oft recall 

Fond thoughts of youthful days, 
When love's sweet flower was budding 

Beneath its springtime rays. 



94 POEMS. 

Ah, well do I remember,^ 

For how can I forget? 
Though fled, forgotten never. 

Until life's sun doth set: 
While fancy often lingers 

O'er the happy, blissful past, — 
O'er the days when I so merry 

Thought joy and love would last. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For I can ne'er forget: 
Those balmy eves of summer 

Have left a fragrant spot; 
For memory often wanders, — 

In fancy again I tread 
Those blissful days all over, 

And sigh that they have fled. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For how can I forget 
Those moonlight eves of summer, 

Where so often I have set 
Within the mellow gloaming 

Of the twilight's gentle hour. 
With many a dearly loved one. 

That ril see again no more. 



POEMS. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For I can ne'er forget: 
And will cherish fondly ever 

For they linger round me yet, 
While oft the sight I smother 

For the sweet remembered past, 
And the dearest ones that loved me 

With a love too pure to last. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For I can ne'ei* forget: 
My youthful fancy wanders 

Where many a time Fve set 
Within some leafy bower. 

In my girlhood's happy day, — 
With loved ones all around me. 

Have whiled the hours away. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For how^ can I forget: 
The moonlight eves of summer 

Shine just as brightly yet, 
And in the far-off heavens 

Shines many a gleaming light: 
Where in the great Hereafter 

Our spirits may unite. 



95 



96 POEMS. 

Ah, well do I remember, — 

For I can ne'er forget: 
I would be of that number 

Who may with angels sit, 
Then the future life may brighten 

With the dawn of coming light 
That shines direct from Heaven 

To guide us to the right. 



BEAUTIFUL SUNLIGHT. 

Beautiful sunlight. 

Thou hast gone to appear 
With thy Father in heaven. 

Where all is now clear. 
We on earth weeping, 

And longing for rest ; 
Yours is secured 

In heaven, we trust. 

Beautiful sunlight. 

We lov'd you while here. 
Too lovely for earth, 

God wanted you near ; 



POEMS. 

Has taken you to keep 

Free from all harm. 
In His beautiful home 

Nothing more can alarm. 

Beautiful sunlight, 

Oh, could you return, 
And tell of those beauties 

We so wish to learn ; 
God's great book is sealed 

Until we depart ; 
Our records are in heaven, 

May we gain the good part. 

Beautiful sunlight, 

As we bid you farewell. 
You to go heavenward, 

We earthly to dwell, 
Till our mission is ended, 

We call'd up above, 
To dwell in our Father's 

Everlasting love. 

Beautiful sunlight, 

God wanted a flower ; 

Has taken you to bloom 
In His heavenly bower ; 



97 



98 POEMS. 

Transplanted above, 

One more shining light, 

Making heaven, if possible, 
More beautifully bright. 

Beautiful sunlight, 

God oped your seal'd eyes, 
That you might see clearly 

Beyond the bright skies. 
The shadow of God 

A mantle o'erthrew, 
Then the beauties of heaven 

Were reveal'd unto you. 

Beautiful sunlight, 

Asleep in your God, 
Your glorified spirit, 

Where angels have trod. 
Farewell, our dear sunlight. 

Shining above. 
In the light of our Father's 

Most heavenly love. 



POEMS. 99 



TO BELLE 

I could not close this little book 

Without for thee some kindly feeling: 

While o'er these pages you may look, 
My love for thee I am revealing. 

And when I gaze upon thy face, 

And meet affection there so tender, — 

A gentle, loving heart I trace, 
That forever I'll remember. 

My friend, thou hast within thyself 
One of God's best blessings, — 

A pure heart within thy breast, — 
True, loving, fond, caressing. 

Long years ago, since first we met. 
Among my friends you number, — 

A dear loved one I'll ne'er forget, 
But fondly e'er remember. 



POEMS. 



ADIEU, MY FRIEND. 

Adieu, my friend, the tear of sorrow 
Dims the eye, and we must weep; 

For you are leaving, and to-morrow 
Will be upon the briny deep. 

When the billows roar around thee, 

Fear not for thy little band: 
God guides and saves upon the sea. 

As well as rules upon the land. 

May He in loving mercy e\ er 

Abide with you where'er thou be, 

And conduct thee safely to the harbor. 
Where kind friends will welcome thee. 

Adieu, my friend, a short time only, 
Ere you're welcomed home again 

By true hearts that prize you truly, — 
Still in our friendship you'll remain. 



POEMS. 



TO MY NIECE. 

Around the tlying bed of mother 
Oft my heart went out to thee, 

With a fervent wish to Heaven 
That thou 'It ever remembered be. 

Yours a love so true and tender, 
With no eye but God to see; 

And I truly felt thy kindness, — 
Thou wilt e\er remembered be. 

Thy fond affection for grandmother 
Was so beautiful to me, — 

And I thought of thee so often, — 
Thou wilt ever remembered be. 

We will ne'er forget thy goodness, 
Nor will God in whom you trust: 

Always be thus kind and gentle 
Till you mingle with the dust. 

I pray our father to keep thee ever 
Pure and holy in His love, — 

And safely anchor in His harbor, 
When you pass to Heaven above. 



POEMS. 



THE DEPARTED ONE. 

Only one short year has passed and lied, 
Forever that sweet face of thine, 

Pillowed so oft u])on my Ijreast, now dead I 
God willed it so, — why should I repine ? 

^Tis hard to tear my soul apart from thine, 
For I had dreamed sweet dreams of thee ; 

How can I lose thee and forever resign 
All in this life so dear to me. 

'Tis the will of God to suffer here below ; 

To love and lose all that is dear. 
Then struggle on in sadness here and woe, 

To make our way to Heaven more clear. 

I feel thy power when sorrow ever 

Comes to me with withering blight ; 
Thy remembrance leads my mind forever 
To your heavenly home beyond my sight. 

Oft I fancy thy sweet voice above 

The cooling breeze of twilight hour I feel, 

And hear thy whispered vows of love, . 
And fancy my arms around thee steal. 



POEMS. ro3 

Now those happy days have forever passed, 
I feel what I have loved and lost ; 

And long to lay me down and be at rest, 
Nor longer here upon life's billows toss'd. 

This little grassy mound holds all I love ; 

Oft I strew fresh flowers upon your grave ; 
While thy sweet and pure spirit from above 

Will ever watch o'er my soul and save 

From dark desjjair, and gently lead 

Your love left only a little while behind 

To watch and pray, hoping some day indeed 
To mingle in beautiful spirit-love divine. 

The joys and pleasures of this earthly life 
No more can till my soul with love ; 

In the grave they're buried with my wife. 
Till we reunite in Heaven above. 



I04 FOEMS. 



IN MEMORIUM. 

LITTLE ALBKRT. 

Little Albert, baby-love, 

Blossoming in thy home above ; 

Filled with angels such as thee 

Beautiful Heaven is supposed to be. 

Hush, dear mother, hush thy weeping ; 

God forever thy babe is keeping ; 

All your grief can ne'er restore 

Thy bright cherub evermore. 

Oh, so many hearts are sighing 

When their baby-loves are dying ; 

God's mysteries never can disse\er 

Baby-love from thine forever. 

God holds the casket in His keeping ; 

Sweetly thy darling baby's sleeping. 

"Suffer little children to come unto me," 

Our Saviour said. He will watch over thee. 

Leading your pathway to life immortal. 

Thy baby awaits thee at Heaven's portal. 

Resting sweetly in his little casket-bed, 

Love and leave him with the dead. 

Then when the trumpet-sound is given, 

Hope to meet thy babe in Heaven. 



POEMS. 



105 



THEE, MY FRIEND. 

Thy little acts of kindness 
Have won for thee a place 

In my heart's pure affection, 
Tiiat time can ne'er efface. 



Until I pass forever 
Unto my home above, 

Memory will linger ever 
Around thy deeds of love. 

In gentle ;iccents tender. 
Kindly words and true, — 

An ever friendly welcome 
I have received from you. 

Now let me thank thee kindly: 
Believe me thy true friend; 

On my friendshi]) trusting ever, 
You may through life depend. 

If best wishes for thee ever 
Could thy days prolong. 

While on this earth forever 
This would be my song — 



io6 POEMS. 

God spare and lead thee gently 
Unto the living Truth; 

Keep thee pure and holy, — 
Guide thee in thy youth 

Unto that everlasting life 
Where all is peace and love, 

Free from care and early strife. 
To dwell with God above. 

When you this brief life resign, 
And on earth no longer stay, 

In Heaven may your record shine 
As clear and bright as day. 



LITTLE DAISY. 

Little Daisy, transplanted above, 
To bloom in the garden of heavenly love : 
Too lovely for earth, God called her away, 
Home with the angels forever to stay. 

'Tis a beautiful thought: thy Daisy not here, 
But waiting in Heaven till you may appear. 
Freed from this earth and all bitter strife. 
Will meet your embrace in everlasting life. 



POEMS. 107 

Take comfort, beloved ones ; your loss is her 

gain. 
Gone her pure spirit in Heaven to remain. 
A beautiful thought when this brief life is o'er, 
I.ov'd ones will welcome on Heaven's bright 

shore. 

Little Daisy, ere from earth passed away, 
Threw up her arms to her mother to say 
Receive me in heaven, our beautiful home. 
Where we together with angels may roam. 

Then this sweet child from earth passed away, 
Fled her pure spirit with the angels to stay. 
God has received her in Heaven above, 
To bloom in His garden of beautiful love. 



